“Of course – as you’ve no doubt guessed – there’s a big ‘But Then’ moment heading this way…”

It’s a sunny, spring day in East London. On a street corner, two teenagers kiss. One of them is Toni. This is her first kiss.
It makes her very happy.

But someone is watching.

Someone who doesn’t care about her happiness at all.
And they’re about to change Toni’s life… forever.

Arcola Theatre presents the live premiere of Philip Ridley’s Tarantula. A startling exploration of identity, memory, love, and the lengths it takes someone to free themselves from the web of their past.

POST-SHOW TALKS

★★★★★ “A stunning solo turn in a complex but incredible piece of writing.” – Everything Theatre

★★★★★ “This is one of the performances of the year so early into 2025. The volatility, unpredictability and fragility of Henley’s take on Toni is shocking, engrossing and emphatic. An unbelievable talent.” – Liam O'Dell

★★★★½ “A searing intensity... exceptional acting, astutely observed writing, and masterful staging unite into a powerful piece of theatre.” – A Youngish Perspective

★★★★ “This is a real triumph of a performance that sends shivers round the room. ” – Time Out

★★★★ “Henley is just mesmeric ... it lingers with you ” – The Stage

★★★★ “It is an immensely energetic, tour de force performance; despite the harrowing subject matter, you simply want it to go on and on.” – The Guardian

★★★★ “Her performance is courageous and raw. It is a magnificent and terrible thing to watch.'” – Spy In the Stalls

★★★★ “Tarantula is a mesmerising exploration of identity, memory, and the human psyche that leaves audiences spellbound.” – Theatre Weekly

★★★★ “A terrific piece of contemporary theatre” – The Reviews Hub

★★★★ “A perfect example of how talent doesn’t need a lot of surrounding effects and impressive scenery to shine.” – Theatre and Tonic

★★★★ “Tarantula is a powerful and memorable piece of theatre, one that will linger in my mind. ” – London Pub Theatres

★★★★ “An absorbing and energetic production with food for thought.'” – London Theatre1

★★★★ “Poignant, enchanting and consecutively haunting” – First Night Magazine

★★★★ “Georgie Henley’s performance is very empathetic ...her portrayal of Toni is excellent” – Adventures in Theatreland

“The finest one-person show we’ll see all year...This stunning performance from Henley ought to garner awards.” – Fringe Review

“Scorchingly intense performance from Henley... setting the bar way high for every other actor to follow the rest of this year” – Ought to be Clowns

“Ridley’s text is a masterpiece of precision and impassioned storytelling...Green’s riveting production, with Henley’s wonderfully crafted and utterly convincing performance, is a real treat. The fury of her delivery chills the blood. Adrenaline high: hair-raising, compelling, but also strangely satisfying. And so alive when live.” – The Theatre Times